Basketball safety training device

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is a basketball training and safety device comprising a ball attached to a cord attached to a belt worn by a user. The cord allows movement of the ball without the user having to move from their original position and for keeping the ball within the desired area of the user. Disclosed herein is also a ball with a bar inserted into an opening and covered with a plug.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority on the basis of U.S. Provisional Application 62/499,256, filed on Jan. 23, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to the sports industry. In particular, this disclosure relates to training and safety devices.

BACKGROUND

Basketball is a popular sport in which many participate for both fun and exercise. One aspect of basketball is manipulating a round ball. The goal of basketball is to place the ball through a hoop to score points. However, a basketball may also be used to provide benefits. A person can improve his or her hand eye coordination as well as developing concentration by dribbling or exercising with a basketball.

Basketball is normally played on a court where a large flat surface is cleared of obstructions, thus allowing for moving the ball around. However, many people do not have access to basketball courts or have limited access to basketball courts. For some, practicing in a small space may be the only option. Yet, this poses several problems.

One major problem with practicing in small space is losing control of the ball. A basketball has a large amount of bounce and can move great distances. As a result, if one is practicing in a confined space a loose ball can cause damage to surrounding objects. If a person does not have access to an indoor gym or large space, practicing outside is the best option.

An issue with practicing outside is that a loose ball can get away from a person quickly, requiring the person to retrieve the ball before losing it. Retrieving loose balls poses a great danger. A common problem is children practicing basketball in the streets and trying to retrieve balls in traffic, thereby placing the child in danger. Many react quickly to retrieve a ball before it the ball gets lost and do not pay attention to their surroundings. Drivers are also put in danger by having to react quickly to avoid an errant ball or person potentially causing injury to the driver, person, and potentially others as well.

The common misconception of only needing a ball to practice has left the industry with few basketball and safety training devices. Most devices aim to improve a player's shooting ability by restricting a player's ability to shoot. Some other devices are structures or hoops designed to improve a player's shot. However, there is a need for improving a player's ability to control the ball and allow for easy retrieval.

There exists a need for basketball training or safety devices providing easy retrieval of a ball. There exists a need for limiting freedom of a ball, e.g., the distance a ball travels. There exists a need for a training device keeping a ball close to the player using a ball. There exists a need for increasing the safety of a player. There exists a need for keeping a player's surrounding area safe from loose balls.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one example of attaching a ball to a cord and to a belt. Ball 101 is attached to cord 103 with attachment means 102. Belt 107 is attached to cord 103 by attachment means 105 with loop fastener 106. Cord lock 104 is attached to cord 103. Belt 107 has buckle 109 and hook and loop fasteners 108.

FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a belt showing buckle 201, hook and loop fasteners 202, loop fastener 203, D-ring 204, cord lock 205, and hook and loop fasteners 206.

FIG. 3 illustrates one example of a buckle.

FIG. 4 illustrates one example of cord 403 attached to belt 404 by D-ring 401 by loop fastener 402.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a cord lock.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of bar 602 suitable for inserting into opening 601 and also covered by plug 603.

FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a cross cut view of cord 703 attached to bar 702 inserted into opening 701 and covered by plug 704.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example of cord 801 is wrapped around bar 802 inserted into opening 804 allowing plug 802 to travel along cord 801.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a three-dimensional representation of the bar.

FIG. 10 illustrates one example of a three-dimensional representation of the plug.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is a new basketball training device. Disclosed herein is a new device providing for easy retrieval of balls. Disclosed herein is a new device for improving the safety of practicing basketball. Disclosed herein is a new ball for improving basketball training and related safety.

Disclosed herein is a ball training device, comprising:

-   -   a belt;     -   a cord;     -   a cord lock;     -   a ball;     -   a first attachment means; and     -   a second attachment means; wherein the first attachment means is         attached to the ball and the second attachment means is attached         to the belt.

As used herein, the term “belt” refers to a material forming a loop around an object. In one embodiment, the belt is a strap. In one embodiment, the belt is a band. In one embodiment, the belt is composed of leather. In one embodiment, the belt is composed of nylon. In one embodiment, the belt is composed of webbing. In one embodiment, the belt comprises a buckle. In one embodiment, the belt has a plurality of holes. In one embodiment, the belt is adjustable to various waist sizes. In one embodiment, the belt comprises a first attachment means. In one embodiment, the belt comprises a second attachment means.

As used herein, the term “webbing” refers to a material formed from interlacing other material or materials. In one embodiment, the webbing is woven fabric used for straps, belts, etc. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of cotton. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of flax. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of nylon. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of polypropylene. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of polyester. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of poly paraphenylene terephthalamide. In one embodiment, the webbing is composed of high-performance polyethylene.

As used herein, the term “cord” refers to a material or materials formed from twisted strands. In one embodiment, the cord is string. In one embodiment, the cord is rope. In one embodiment, the cord is thread. In one embodiment, the cord is cable. In one embodiment, the cord is wire. In one embodiment, the cord is composed of a synthetic material. In one embodiment, the cord is composed of a natural material. In one embodiment, the cord is elastic.

As used herein, the term “elastic” refers to a material able to resume its original shape after contraction, dilatation, or distortion. The elastic cord allows a ball to move freely and a user can move the ball without having to move from his/her's original position to retrieve the ball. The elastic cord may be cut to various lengths to depending on a player's environment or size. The elastic cord also allows the ball to move a distance greater than the initial length of the cord without compromising the integrity of the cord.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 10 to 90 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 20 to 80 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 30 to 70 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 40 to 60 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 20 to 40 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

In one embodiment, the cord is between 60 to 80 inches long, for example as measured end to end when laid flat without any attachments.

As used herein, the term “cord lock”, or “cord fastener”, “plastic stopper”, and/or “cord toggle” refers to a device attaching cords, strings, ropes, and/or drawstrings and tightening said drawstrings without the use of knots. In one embodiment, the cord lock comprises of three parts: a barrel, a toggle (plunger), and a spring. Squeezed together, tension is released and the cord lock can move freely up and down the cords. Released, the tension is engaged and the cord lock stays in place. In one embodiment, the cord lock is plastic. In one embodiment, the cord lock retains one or more cord segments or drawstrings in a tightened condition and releases said cord segments when desired. For example, cord locks are used in connection with garments including drawstrings, such as hooded jackets and sweatshirts. Cord locks are also used on various types of bags utilizing cords to temporarily close an open end. FIG. 5 illustrates one example of a cord lock.

As used herein, the term “ball” refers to a round object (usually spherical but sometimes ovoid). A ball is common in various games and sports, where the play of the game involves movement of the ball as it is hit, kicked, and/or thrown by players. Balls can also be used for recreational activities. Such as catch, marbles, juggling, etc. In one embodiment, the ball is composed of rubber. In one embodiment, the ball is inflated. In one embodiment, the ball is hollow. In one embodiment, the ball is capable of being bounced. In one embodiment, the ball is a basketball. In one embodiment, the ball is a football.

As used herein, the term “attachment means” refers to a device, compound, and/or method used for holding two or more things together. In one embodiment, there is a first attachment means. In one embodiment, there is a second attachment means. In one embodiment, the first attachment means is an adhesive and the second attachment means is an adhesive. In one embodiment, the first attachment means is an adhesive and the second attachment means is a pin and lock mechanism. In one embodiment, the first attachment means is a bar and the second attachment means is a D-ring. In one embodiment, the first attachment means attaches a ball to an elastic cord. In one embodiment, the second attachment means attached an elastic cord to a belt.

As used herein, the term “adhesive” refers to a substance applied to a surface, or multiple surfaces, binding two things them together. The term adhesive includes glue, cement, mucilage, paste or any means for attaching one thing to another. An adhesive offers advantages over other binding techniques such as sewing, mechanical fastening, thermal bonding, etc., e.g., binding different materials together, distributing stress more efficiently across the joint, cost effectiveness, improving aesthetic design, and increasing design flexibility.

As used herein, the term “bar” refers to a piece of material having greater length than width. In embodiment, the bar is a rod. In one embodiment, the bar is a rigid piece of wood, metal, or similar material. In one embodiment, the bar is a stick. In one embodiment, the bar is used a support for holding an elastic cord. In one embodiment, a hole is cut into a ball and the bar is placed inside the hole wherein an elastic cord wraps around the bar. In one embodiment, the bar is metal. In one embodiment, the bar is plastic. In one embodiment, the bar is a rectangle. In one embodiment, the bar is a cylinder. FIG. 9 illustrates a non-limiting example of a bar.

As used herein, the term “metal” refers to a material, e.g., an element, compound, or alloy, that is typically hard, opaque, shiny, and has electrical and thermal conductivity. Metals are generally malleable allowing the material to be hammered or pressed permanently out of shape without breaking or cracking. Metals are also fusible (fused or melted) and ductile (drawn out into a thin wire).

As used herein, the term “plastic” refers to a polymer or polymers malleable to make objects. In one embodiment, the plastic is made from synthetic materials, e.g., petrochemicals. In one embodiment, the plastic is made from natural materials, e.g., collagen. Due to relatively low cost, ease of manufacture, versatility, and imperviousness to water, plastic is used in a wide variety of applications. Plastic is often the preferred choice amidst alternative materials such as wood, stone, leather, paper, metal, glass, and ceramic. In one embodiment, the plastic is used to make a bar.

In one embodiment, the belt comprises a buckle.

As used herein, the term “buckle” refers to a flat, typically rectangular frame used for joining the ends of an object. Within the context of this disclosure a buckle includes a clasp, clip, catch, hasp, and/or fastener. A buckle allows for adjusting a belt to fit securely around the waist of various individuals. In one embodiment, the buckle comprises a pin to hold a strap. In one embodiment, the buckle is composed of a male and female end connected together. In one embodiment, the buckle is composed of a clasp holding one end of a belt in place. In one embodiment, the buckle is a means to attach a belt to itself, e.g., forming a loop. In one embodiment, the buckle allows for adjusting diameter of a loop. FIG. 3 illustrates one example of the buckle.

In one embodiment, the belt comprises a hook and loop fastener.

As used herein, the term “hook and loop fastener” refers to two sheets, one covered with tiny loops and the other with tiny flexible hooks, which adhere when pressed together and can be separated when pulled apart. The hook and loop fastener provides ease of use while also providing a reliable fastening means. In one embodiment, the hook and loop fastener is a means to attach a belt to itself, e.g., forming a loop. In one embodiment, the hook and loop fastener allows for adjusting diameter of a loop.

In one embodiment, the elastic cord is attached to the belt with a D-ring.

As used herein, the term “D-ring” refers to an item shaped like the letter D used as a connection or lashing means. In one embodiment, the D-ring comprises a tie-down ring. A D-ring may also be referred to as a Dring, d-ring or Dee-ring. In one embodiment, the D-ring may be used at the end of a strap. In one embodiment, the D-ring is secured to a surface with a fabric strap. In one embodiment, the D-ring swings freely after it has been secured. D-rings may vary in composition, geometry, weight, finish and load (rated) capacity. In one embodiment, the D-ring is attached to a belt and an elastic cord is wrapped around the D-ring. FIG. 4 illustrates a non-limiting example of a D-ring 401 attaching to loop fastener 402 attaching cord 403 to belt 404.

In one embodiment, the D-ring is attached to the belt with a loop fastener.

As used herein, the term “loop fastener” refers to a material forming a shape allowing for attaching items. In one embodiment, the loop fastener is webbing forming a curve for securing a D-ring to a belt. In one embodiment, the loop fastener is a piece of fabric forming a circle for securing a buckle to a belt.

FIG. 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of the basketball training device. Ball 101 is attached to cord 103 by attachment means 102. Attachment means 105 attached cord 103 to loop fastener 106 of belt 107. Buckle 109 allows a person to wear the belt and the hook and loop fastener 108 allow adjustment of the size of the belt. Cord lock 104 adjusts the length of the cord and the distance of the ball to the person.

FIG. 2 illustrates a non-limiting example of belt. Buckle 201 allows a person to wear the belt and hook and loop fastener 202 allow for adjustment of size. Loop fastener 206 allows for attachment of the buckle to the belt. Loop fastener 203 allows for attaching D-Ring 204 to the belt. Cord lock 205 allows for adjustment of the cord.

Disclosed herein is a ball, comprising:

-   -   a bar; and     -   a plug, wherein the bar is inserted into an opening of the ball         and the plug covers the opening without deflating the ball.

As used herein, the term “plug” refers to a cover fitting securely in a slot or hole. In one embodiment, the plug has a hole. In one embodiment, the plug does not have a hole. In one embodiment, the plug is composed of rubber. In one embodiment, a cord is placed through the hole of the plug. In one embodiment, the plug travels the length of the cord. FIG. 10 illustrates a non-limiting example of a plug.

As used herein, the term “rubber” refers to an elastic solid substance, either natural or synthetic. A natural substance is material derived from nature, e.g., latex from trees. A synthetic substance is material made by man, e.g., in a lab. Rubber is often used as a durable and lasting material in many products, e.g., toys, insulation, hoses, etc.

As used herein, the term “opening” refers to an aperture or gap. In one embodiment, the opening serves as access point, e.g., allowing an elastic cord to pass through a plug. In one embodiment, the opening allows for inserting a bar into a ball without affecting the structural integrity of the ball.

FIG. 6 illustrates one example of how bar 602 is inserted into opening 601 of a ball and covered by plug 603.

FIG. 7 illustrates a non-limiting cross-cut view of a ball and cord 703 is wrapped around bar 702 in opening 701 and covered by plug 704.

FIG. 8 illustrates a non-limiting example of cord 801 attaching to bar 804 in opening 803 allowing plug 802 to travel the length of the cord 801.

Although the present invention herein has been described with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Those having skill in the art would recognize that various modifications to the exemplary embodiments may be made, without departing from the scope of the invention.

Moreover, it should be understood that various features and/or characteristics of differing embodiments herein may be combined with one another. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the scope of the invention.

Furthermore, other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a scope and spirit being indicated by the claims.

Finally, it is noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the,” include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent, and vice versa. As used herein, the term “include” or “comprising” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of an item or items is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the recited item(s). 

1. A ball training device, comprising: a belt; a cord; a cord lock; a hollow ball; a bar; a plug; an opening; wherein the bar is inserted into the opening and the cord wraps around the bar.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The ball training device of claim 1, comprising a D-ring.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The ball training device of claim 1, wherein the bar is metal.
 6. The ball training device of claim 1, wherein the bar is plastic.
 7. The ball training device of claim 1, comprising a buckle.
 8. The ball training device of claim 1, comprising a hook and loop fastener.
 9. The ball training device of claim 1, wherein the cord is between 40 to 60 inches long.
 10. The ball training device of claim 1, wherein the cord is elastic.
 11. The ball training device of claim 1, wherein the belt is composed of webbing.
 12. A ball, comprising: a hollow ball; a bar; and a plug, wherein the bar is inserted into an opening of the hollow ball and the plug covers the opening without deflating the hollow ball.
 13. The ball of claim 12, wherein the plug is composed of rubber.
 14. The ball of claim 12, wherein the plug has an opening.
 15. The ball of claim 12, wherein the bar is metal.
 16. The ball of claim 12, wherein the bar is plastic. 